Models in Evolution, Ecology and Systematics

The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Kansas is offering a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Program during the summers of 2013–2015. We invite biology majors and mathematics and computer science major interested in applying their skills to biology problems to apply to our program. Students from our previous program have been very successful in graduate school and in obtaining science-related positions in the public sector. Join us on Facebook to learn more about our previous program.

As part of the REU program, you will receive training in research and personal development. In addition, you will receive a $5250 stipend, housing and meals. Travel to and from Lawrence to attend the program will also be covered up to $500. You will also receive one research course credit hour from the University of Kansas.

Benefits

As part of the REU program, you will receive training in research and personal development. In addition, you will receive a stipend, housing and meals. Travel to and from Lawrence to attend the program will also be covered up to a specified amount. You will also receive one research course credit hour from the University of Kansas.

Selection Criteria

You must be enrolled in a community college, college or university and have good academic standing. Students graduating in the year of the program are not eligible. Students must also be United States citizens or permanent residents. Previous research experience is not required.

Selection of students will be determined by

Genuine interest in at least one of the potential research projects

Motivation and enthusiasm to develop research skills and techniques

Successful completion of college-level courses relevant to research. For biology majors this will be basic biology and chemistry courses appropriate for the level completed (first year, sophomore, junior). For mathematics majors this will be mathematics and science courses appropriate to level completed and a desire to apply mathematics skills to biological problems. Biology courses are not required for mathematics students.

An academic record with consistent progress

Ability to write clearly

Motivation and enthusiasm for scientific research

Ability to participate for the duration of the program, May 26–July 31, 2015

Applications

Applications are due February 16. In addition to the online application, which includes an essay, you should send transcripts (unofficial are fine) and request one letter of recommendation from a professor familiar with your academic performance. For full consideration, all application materials must be received by February 16. Read more here »

Additional information

For more information about the program, contact the REU Program at eebreu@ku.edu.

The University of Kansas, the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and Environs

A major public research university, the University of Kansas (KU) has a long and distinguished tradition of supporting undergraduate research. At present there are six other REU programs at KU with which students will have the opportunity to interact.

The faculty of the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB) includes distinguished researchers whose research falls into three major themes: Evolutionary Mechanisms, Ecology and Global Change Biology and Biodiversity and Macroevolution.
Members of EEB are dedicated to undergraduate research. Faculty in the department may hold joint appointments with the Kansas Biological Survey or the KU Biodiversity Institute , thereby expanding the opportunities for interactions through this program.

KU is located in Lawrence, Kansas. Hailed as one of the top 10 college towns in the US, Lawrence boasts a thriving downtown with an active music scene. Situated about 45 miles from Kansas City, KU is within the transition zone between the Eastern Deciduous Forest and Tallgrass Prairie biome. Available outdoor activity sites include Clinton Lake State Park at the edge of town and other state parks within an hour drive. At KU itself are several museums on a campus that is bustling throughout the summer.